As winter settles over the Emirates, the UAE comes alive with exhibitions, workshops, and cultural experiences, making December one of the most inspiring months of the year. From Saadiyat Island’s landmark museums to Dubai’s creative neighbourhoods, the festive season becomes a time to explore, learn, and reconnect with art in meaningful ways.
This season blends the UAE’s deep-rooted traditions with its ever-growing creative landscape. December is when the country’s museums and art centres open their doors wider than ever, offering hands-on workshops, family activities, contemporary exhibitions, and newly opened cultural destinations, ideal for festive outings. Here are some of our most recommended exhibitions and happenings this month.
ABU DHABI
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Louvre Abu Dhabi’s winter programme remains one of the richest in the region, and several major exhibitions and workshops continue throughout December:
Mamluks: Legacy of an Empire
A landmark exhibition exploring the artistic and architectural legacy of the Mamluk dynasty, featuring rare manuscripts, metalwork, textiles and historical treasures. (Until January 25, 2026).
Art Here 2025: Shadows
The Richard Mille Art Prize exhibition showcases artists from the GCC, MENA, and Japan. Installations extend across indoor galleries and outdoor spaces beneath the iconic dome, making it a must-see before it closes at the end of the month. (Until December 28 2025)
“Drawing at the Museum” Workshops
These guided sketching sessions run through mid-December, inviting visitors to slow down inside the galleries and sketch alongside museum educators. A calming, creative way to experience the collection.
Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi
The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi opened its doors to the public this December, marking the first full month of access to one of the region’s most anticipated cultural landmarks. Inside, visitors can encounter “Stan,” the world-famous T. rex skeleton, alongside a 25-metre blue whale suspended in motion and a series of interactive galleries that chart 13.8 billion years of natural history, from the origins of the universe to the evolution of life on Earth. The launch lineup also includes major exhibitions such as March of the Triceratops: The Herd and Wildlife Photographer of the Year. Throughout December, the museum hosts a range of children’s workshops and family-friendly activities focused on fossils, ecosystems, and planetary science, making it an inspiring holiday outing for visitors of all ages.
Zayed National Museum
December 2025 is also the anticipated opening season of the Zayed National Museum in the Saadiyat Cultural District. The museum will offer exhibitions and family activities highlighting the UAE’s heritage, the life of Sheikh Zayed, and the nation’s journey, making it a meaningful cultural stop during National Day and festive celebrations.
DUBAI
Tashkeel
Tashkeel continues to be one of Dubai’s most respected community art hubs, and this December it’s offering a full programme of creative experiences for all ages. The Winter Camp returns in early to mid-December with hands-on workshops for children aged 4 to 12, including pour-and-swirl fluid painting, riso-print zine-making, illustration, and mixed-media sessions. Throughout the month, Tashkeel is also hosting a series of workshops for adults and teens, including short courses in printmaking, photography, illustration, and a range of contemporary design techniques. The programme offers residents and visitors an inspiring way to spend a few festive hours immersed in art-making.
Dubai International Art Centre
Dubai International Art Centre is offering a series of skill-focused workshops in December for those looking to deepen their artistic technique. Among the highlights is a two-day Silk Painting Workshop with artist Beena Samnel on December 16 and 18, 2025, where participants can create silk scarves or wall hangings using both traditional and contemporary painting styles.
Alserkal Avenue
December is a vibrant month in Al Quoz, with several exhibitions taking pace at Al Serkal Avenue’s art destinations. Perfect for gallery-hopping, see some of the highlights below:
- Firetti Contemporary – “Moments of Hope” by Besher Koushaji
- CARBON 12 – “All That is Solid” by Gil Heitor Cortesão
- Grey Noise – “The Fire’s Edge” by Ali Kaaf
- Jossa by Alserkal – “Contours” by Rachana Darda*
Smaller Museums & Hidden Cultural Spots
- Not everything is grand scale. Some of the best cultural experiences this December come from quieter corners:
- Jameel Arts Centre – Contemporary exhibitions and its sculpture garden on the creek
- Etihad Museum – A perfect December visit leading up to National Day
- Sharjah Art Foundation – Experimental art, films, and winter exhibitions running through the month
- Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi – Contemporary shows and children’s creative studios open for festive programming
These spaces offer a slower, more reflective way to enjoy culture during the holidays.
